Dr Simon Chard is an award-winning cosmetic and implant dentist based at Rothley Lodge Dental in Surrey. As a Past President of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD), Dr Chard is a proponent for minimally invasive, biologically focused and technologically advanced ethical cosmetic dentistry, offering invaluable insights into enhancing the daily workflow.
At the BACD 21st Annual Conference, Dr Chard will guide dental professionals towards a new clinical frontier with his workshop “Unlock the Power of 3D Printing in Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry.” He outlines why the topic has never been more important:
“Regarding 3D printing, my view is that there is an interest but also a wariness – dental practitioners may be concerned about the cost or how it will benefit their daily workflow. But when deployed in busy surgeries, digital dentistry like CAM is immensely beneficial. At this moment in time I am very excited about how 3D printing can impact our profession, be that manufacturing multiple dental prostheses, wax ups, surgical guides or indirect restorations like crowns, veneers, onlays and inlays – all in a way not previously done before.
“In the current climate, patients are busier than ever before and any opportunity to reduce chair time and improve efficiencies is a huge practice builder. 3D printing unlocks a huge potential for same day delivery for patients across a range of treatment types in a way that we just haven’t seen before. Leveraging AI in these technologies is also developing rapidly – now is the time for dentists to embrace these advances.”
Working at the workshop
“Attendees of the workshop will achieve several essential learning objectives. Firstly, to explore the practical applications of 3D printing across various treatment modalities, including nightguards, dental implants, trial smiles and restorative solutions, as well as its potential as a viable alternative to traditional porcelain or direct composite veneers. Attendees will also learn how to seamlessly incorporate 3D printing into daily dental practice to streamline workflows, enhance clinical outcomes, and elevate the patient experience.
“Completing the workshop will give dental practitioners a hands-on experience with 3D printing workflows using the advanced ecosystems of SprintRay and Ivoclar, sponsors of the session, to optimise the aesthetic results of their treatments. The workshop is ideal for showcasing 3D printing’s potential in dentistry beyond cosmetic treatments or printing restorations – it is accessible for all and will empower every dental team member to get involved for a hugely efficient daily workflow.
“The theme for the BACD 21st Annual Conference is ‘Dare to Restore: The Ceramic v Composite Showdown’, setting up a fascinating programme of talks to navigate this debate. 3D printing is a part of this, offering a middle ground between direct resin and porcelain. There are advantages and drawbacks for both ceramics and composites, and 3D printing hybrid ceramic/composite restorations has positioned itself as an interesting third option.”
Make the most of membership
Dr Chard has been a member of the BACD since he was a dental student 13 years ago, beginning a connection that saw him elected as President in 2023. No stranger to the BACD Annual Conference, Dr Chard highlights why this year’s is one you won’t want to miss:
“I love BACD on the road, and this year’s Annual Conference is held at The Lowry Centre in Manchester. Regional conferences outside of London really bring people even closer together; giving us an opportunity to connect with colleagues from all over the country. It will be an excellent opportunity to socialise and network with like-minded dentists. The BACD Annual Conference is always a calendar highlight and this year’s will be no exception.”
Along with the line-up of internationally respected speakers and game-changing hands-on workshops, the BACD 21st Annual Conference also houses an extensive trade show filled with the latest and greatest technological innovations and cutting-edge services, making it a must-see event for all dental professionals with a passion for ethical cosmetic dentistry. Evening entertainment will keep the celebrations rolling beyond the daytime learning, serving as superb opportunities to connect with peers and widen your network. Don’t miss out by booking your tickets today.
BACD 21st Annual Conference
6-8 November 2025
The Lowry Arts Centre, Salford Quays, Manchester
Pre-sale tickets available at bacd.com
